Epidemiological profile of hemophilia A in Karbala-Iraq

Hemophilia is an X-linked congenital bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) (in hemophilia A) or factor IX (FIX) (in hemophilia B) and is one of the most important hereditary conditions in Iraq. The current study tried to provide a glimpse into the epidemiological and clinical status, as well as complications and treatment used for patients with hemophilia A in Karbala, Iraq. This retrospective research was carried out by reviewing the medical records of 90 male patients diagnosed with hemophilia A registered at the Hereditary Blood Disease Center in Karbala Teaching Hospital for children in Karbala, Iraq. The data was collected from May 10, 2023, until June 15, 2023, and included age, severity, type of bleeding, therapeutic approach, chronic viral infections including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The median age of the patients was 15 years (18.86±14.42). In this study, one-third of patients' presentations started in the first year of life. The most common type was severe hemophilia A (factor VIII activity < 1%). Consequently, more than half of the patients were treated with factor VIII concentrate. Four patients had hepatitis C, while HIV was confirmed in one patient. The epidemiological or clinical parameters of hemophilia A patients in Karbala seem similar to those in other cities in Iraq. By considering this preliminary data, further comprehensive studies for patients with hemophilia and associated complications in other provinces or cities in Iraq are highly suggested to provide a clear perspective about the prevalence and epidemiological burdens.